sapientbreeze

There is a visceral reaction that often accompanies seeing the darkness in someone you love. This can be frightening, and perhaps will drive you to do and say things that you wouldn’t normally consider. This is the mirror, and it is why we need love. For in love we find ourselves… not our ideal selves, nor our mental picture of ourselves… this is the real self.

The question then presents: if so, how ought we respond in such a situation? How can you be better when confronted with the monster that lurks beneath us all. First, take a metaphorical step back from the situation, and simply observe. Your emotions are piqued, so breathe deeply to allow your nerves to settle. Next, with as much calm as you can find, look again… and force yourself to see the reflection that all frightening things can be to your own inner darkness. Ask yourself: have I really a right to anger? We are all the same, deep down.

Take a deeper look, and consider the facts. This is likely a low point for my love, a time where he or she is closest to breaking. Their strength will mean nothing if they must carry their burdens alone. So don’t allow yourself outrage with the loved one in your life, but instead kindle outrage with the situation. Take the world apart if you must, for what is this life without people who really love you by your side.

Let’s recall that life is ultimately a roller-coaster, where the highest points are euphoric triumph and the lowest lows depression and despair. This is not something you or anyone can change, and even if you found a way to live a flat existence, you would quietly welcome death as that is no life. So try to remember in those glorious moments in your relationships as points in time, and that inevitably they will be contrasted by adversity. Remember that you are strong enough to ride out these lows, and that life is simply making sure that you are strong enough for the challenges to come.

We fight for those we love, warrior. Stay true, and fight on… you are good enough to rise again through the darkness.